Just because you don't have cash doesn't mean you don't want and need things. According to authors and business gurus Karen Hoffman and Shera Dalin, it's time to get a little creative. Most people have a skill they can use-it's just a matter of figuring out what that is and how to use it to get something else. From piano lessons in exchange for haircuts to an engine tune-up in exchange for house painting, The Art of Barter offers step-by-step instructions in:
• Determining your "tradable" skills
• Initiating a trade
• Figuring out a fair exchange
• How to close a deal
• Incorporating barter into everyday life
• In addition, the book is peppered with inspirational ideas on how to use barter in today's tough economic world.

Softcover, black and white, 224 pages
Book size: 8-1/4 x 5-1/2 inches
Level: All skill levels

All knots are useful, but many can also be very beautiful. Here, Lindsey Philpott sets out to provide the most comprehensive, useful and attractive book of decorative knots from around the world. Readers will learn the materials, methods, measurements and tools needed to tie dozens of beautiful knots. Flat knots, round knots, square knots, covering knots--you name it and this book has it. From braids to plaits to sinnets, here are step-by-step instructions accompanied by full-color photographs for the knot tyer's reference. A handy reference book or a beautiful gift, this is an essential addition to every knot enthusiast's library.

An element of luxury and elegance, ribbon has been used as adornment since antiquity. In Ribbon: The Art of Adornment, ribbon experts Nicholas Kniel and Timothy Wright celebrate the history, versatility and beauty of this textile accoutrement. Through hundreds of stunning, stylish photos, Ribbon gives inspiration and ideas for using ribbon in home décor, including tabletops, pillows, curtains and holiday decorating; gift adornment; fashion; weddings; parties; and more. Learn techniques for tying bows and other methods of working with ribbon, as well as how to purchase, care for and store ribbon. Also included is a helpful glossary defining textile and sewing terms and a comprehensive resource section, giving you all the inspiration and information you need for immersing yourself in the extravagant world of ribbon.

In Alphabets & Ornaments, you'll find exquisite lettering, birds, children and other sophisticated, inspiring designs that you can use to create your own unique scrapbooks and other projects.

Even beginning beaders can create stunning jewelry with delicate, twining floral and filigree details. The primary technique used to make every project is a simple one: Twist two wires together to form a "main stem," then detour at regular or irregular intervals to add "branches" that end in single- or multiple-bead patterns, such as a five-petal flower. Some of the styles are perfect for everyday wear, like the Sand & Sky Turquoise Bracelet and the Bezeled Cabochon Pendant, while others are coordinated pieces for special occasions, such as Cocktail Hour Necklace & Earrings and the Extravagance Mini-Pearl Wedding Set. The jewelry in this designer collection is as lovely as any you'll see at a trendy boutique, but it's also a pleasure to craft.

Softcover, full color, 128 pages
23 projects
Book size: 10 x 8-1/2 inches
Level: All skill levels

It's all about the jewelry, dah-ling! Designer Fernando Dasilva puts the spotlight on high fashion with necklaces, bracelets and earrings that exude elegance and radiate haute couture. Drawing inspiration from vibrant color palettes, Art Deco and fashion-forward findings, these pieces won't just enhance your wardrobe--they'll make it!

Softcover, full color, 128 pages
25 projects
Book size: 10-3/4 x 8-1/4 inches
Level: Beginner to intermediate

In this book, 25 talented artists collaborate to create a stunning charm bracelet and other pieces of jewelry that demonstrate techniques you can apply to other crafts as well. The stories behind each project will inspire you to organize art swaps or collaborations of your own!

Softcover, full color, 127 pages
25 projects
Book size: 10-3/4 x 8-1/4 inches
Level: Beginner to intermediate

Imaginative and stunning, these lovely jewelry pieces are created using mixed techniques that will satisfy crafters and jewelry makers alike.

• Techniques include stringing, wirework, simple stitching, glue and decoupage
• Learn how to work with beads, fibers and paper
• Fashion-forward designs offer a bit of an edge and make a statement

Softcover, full color, 111 pages
29 projects
Book size: 8 x 7-3/4 inches
Level: Beginner to intermediate

In Florals & Nature, you'll find stunning trees, plants, blossoms, birds, butterflies and other sophisticated, inspiring designs that you can use to create your own unique scrapbooks and other projects.

The Memories of a Lifetime™ series provides you with a wealth of decorative art that you can photocopy, download onto your computer from the enclosed CD or use the perforated pages as-is. We've scoured flea markets, vintage design books and other sources for old-fashioned, hard-to-find images that can be used in a variety of projects. All you need is a little imagination and this unique collection to create your own treasured keepsakes, from scrapbook pages and cards to quilts and wall hangings.

Each book in the series includes:
• A CD containing hundreds of high-quality color images--ranging in size from small, detailed borders to large, page-filling elements--that can be downloaded onto both PC and Macintosh computers
• Beautiful full-color images reproduced on 8-1/2 x 11-inch perforated, easy-to-remove pages, ready to use
• An eight-page illustrated gallery of great project ideas

Softcover, full color, 64 pages
Over 250 designs
Book size: 11 x 8-1/2 inches
Level: All skill levels